Today, Thule, a world leader in products that make it easy for people to transport the things they care for, signed on as platinum level sponsor of the 2014 Outdoor Foundation’s Outsiders Ball.  The Ball, in its second year, will rally the outdoor industry in support of a single cause: fighting the growing divide between young people and nature and inspiring a new generation of outdoor enthusiasts, champions, and customers.  The memorable event will take place at the Gallivan Center on August 5^th at 6 pm.

“We are proud to support the Outdoor Foundation’s Outsiders Ball and their mission to get more young people involved in the outdoors. Nature and adventure is what brought many of us to work in this industry. We need to share the joys and beauty of the outdoors and inspire the next generation to follow in our footsteps,” remarked Fred Clark, President, Thule Inc.

In addition to Thule, 2014 Outsiders Ball sponsors include: Outdoor Retailer, Outdoor Industry Association, The Conservation Fund, Backpacker, SNEWS, Chaco, Gore-Tex Brand, Periscope, Vasque, PrAna, Outside, Timberland, GSI Outdoor, Burton, Marmont, JanSport and River Sports Outfitters. Sponsorship opportunities are still available at all levels.

“The response from our industry has been a testament to the business imperative of this issue — activating a new generation of outdoor enthusiasts,” said Chris Fanning, executive director of The Outdoor Foundation. “We are so grateful to the Outsiders Ball to our sponsors who have provided extraordinary energy, ideas and support. We have more to do and I hope that many other organizations, large and small, get involved in our industry’s party with a purpose.”

Specialty retailers will take center stage during the event and work with The Outdoor Foundation to identify the best projects that deserve support through the Outsiders Ball Project Fund. In addition, retailers will play a major role during the event itself – promoting projects in three minute pitches, encouraging attendees to kick in a few more dollars for their local nonprofits.

Last summer, industry leaders joined together for the first time one night to support one common cause – inspiring a new generation of outdoor enthusiasts. Hosted by the Outdoor Foundation and Outdoor Industry Association, Outsiders Ball raised nearly $400,000 to support 100 community projects across the country – many recommended by local retailers.  Watch this video to see the impact of some of the 2013 Outsiders Ball sponsored projects and a  full project list is also available.  For more information or to sponsor the Outsiders Ball, email Chris Fanning at cfanning@outdoorfoundation.org.

Logo courtesy Outdoor Foundation